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Science News for March 4, 2009


GOES-O satellite arrives at KSC for final pre-launch testing

The GOES-O satellite has arrived at the Kennedy Space Center for final pre-launch testing, targeting a launch on April 28. The satellite will provide enhanced weather monitoring and forecast operations with improved image resolution and navigation accuracy.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 4, 2009

MIT: 'Nanostitching' could strengthen airplane skins, more

MIT researchers create nanostitching to reinforce aerospace materials, resulting in 10 times stronger skins and over a million times more conductive properties. Carbon nanotubes are used to stitch together materials, improving bulk multifunctional properties with minimal cost increase.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Composite Materials·DateMar 4, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Incidental findings in trauma patients spark concerns for physicians

A study found that nearly one-fifth of trauma patients have incidental CT findings, associated with age, injury severity score, and mechanism of injury. The study highlights the need for physicians to pay attention to detail in diagnosing and managing these findings.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateMar 4, 2009

Patients with severe asthma benefit from antibody injection

Patients with severe asthma suffering from persistent eosinophilia show significant improvement in symptoms after receiving mepolizumab injections. The treatment reduces the need for prednisone and decreases eosinophil counts, offering new hope for managing this debilitating condition.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 4, 2009

Immune cells from patients with rheumatoid arthritis have prematurely aged chromosomes

Researchers at Emory University School of Medicine discovered that immune cells from patients with rheumatoid arthritis have trouble turning on the enzyme that replenishes telomeres, leading to premature aging. This finding suggests that restoring defective telomerase could help 'reset' the immune system in rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2009

Immune reaction to metal debris leads to early failure of joint implants

Researchers at Rush University Medical Center identified a key immunological defense reaction to metal debris in joint replacement devices, causing loosening of components and early failure. This study found that inflammation is triggered by localized immune reactions to tiny particles of debris released from worn-out implants.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Orthopaedic Research®·DateMar 4, 2009

Heart hazards of woeful wives

A University of Utah study finds that women in troubled marriages are more likely to experience depression, high blood pressure, and obesity, which can increase the risk of heart disease. In contrast, men in strained marriages do not face an increased risk of metabolic syndrome, a group of risk factors for heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateMar 4, 2009
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Biomarkers detected for Chikungunya fever

Researchers in Singapore have identified three specific biomarkers that accurately indicate the severity of Chikungunya fever, which can be easily detected in blood samples. These findings enable quicker and more accurate prognosis for infected patients, distinguishing CHIKF from dengue fever.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 4, 2009

Cats' eye diseases genetically linked to diseases in humans

A genetic link has been identified between cats and humans for two forms of retinitis pigmentosa, a disease causing blindness. Researchers found that cats with specific mutations can be used to test the efficiency of gene therapy for both humans and animals.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Heredity·DateMar 4, 2009

Surviving lung cancer

A new technique called stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) has been shown to significantly improve survival rates for early-stage lung cancer patients, with a median survival range of over 32 months. The treatment doubles the odds of surviving and can even cure at least half of the patients, offering hope without the need for surgery.

SourceTemple University·DateMar 4, 2009
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Is one diet as good as another? U of I study says no and tells you why

A University of Illinois study found that a moderately high protein diet outperforms low-carb diets for weight loss and maintenance. Participants on the protein-rich diet lost more body fat and preserved muscle mass, reducing triglyceride levels and improving overall health.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateMar 4, 2009

Researchers find brain differences between believers and non-believers

A new study by the University of Toronto found that believers show less activity in the anterior cingulate cortex when making errors, resulting in fewer mistakes. This suggests that religious belief has a calming effect on anxiety and stress, allowing individuals to perform better in tasks requiring cognitive control.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 4, 2009
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Mountain on Mars may answer big question

Rice University researchers found that pockets of ancient water may still exist under Olympus Mons due to the presence of clay sediments. This could provide a habitable environment for thermophilic organisms, which thrive near geothermal vents on Earth.

SourceRice University·JournalGeology·DateMar 4, 2009

Obsessive symptoms in childhood can multiply the probabilities of an obsessive compulsive disorder

Children with childhood obsessive and compulsive symptoms are six times more likely to suffer from an obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) as adults, according to a new study. Researchers analyzed data from the Dunedin Study, which tracked participants' psychological variables from childhood to adulthood.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateMar 4, 2009

Measuring quality of life in patients with hereditary kidney disease

A commonly used questionnaire for measuring quality of life in ADPKD patients is not sensitive enough to detect physical and mental problems. The study found links between patient characteristics and physical scores, but no significant difference in quality of life scores compared to the general population.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 4, 2009

Being overweight worsens osteoarthritis

A study found that increased waist circumference and body mass index are associated with a higher risk of primary knee and hip joint replacement. Obesity is recognized as the most important modifiable risk factor for osteoarthritis.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateMar 4, 2009

Chronic diseases are leading causes of death in OPT

In the occupied Palestinian territory (OPT), chronic diseases such as heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer are leading causes of death. The Palestinian National Authority's response has been limited due to military occupation and its consequences on the healthcare system.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 4, 2009
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Can a computer model prevent a war?

Researchers are developing a computer model to analyze the behavior and customs of political and cultural groups to predict potential conflicts and facilitate peaceful resolution. The model, known as ATRAP, uses three-dimensional maps to identify relationships and affiliations between groups, enabling analysts to compute equilibrium so...

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateMar 4, 2009

Kidney disease increases the risk of stroke in patients

A new study by Kaiser Permanente researchers found that chronic kidney disease independently increases the risk of ischemic stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. Kidney function may provide an additional clue about how to best assess stroke risk and decide upon the best prevention strategy for patients with AF.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalCirculation·DateMar 4, 2009

Experts examine causes, treatment and prevention of glaucoma

Researchers are exploring various factors that contribute to glaucoma, including the role of glial cells, mitochondria, and immune response. The report highlights potential approaches for neuroprotection, such as targeting mitochondrial events and manipulating the immune system to repair neural tissue.

SourceAssociation for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateMar 4, 2009

A new soldier in the war on cancer: The blind mole rat

A new study published in the FASEB Journal reveals that a gene in the blind mole rat, which allows it to thrive in low-oxygen environments, is also active in human tumors. This discovery could lead to the development of new anti-cancer drugs that 'suffocate' tumors.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateMar 4, 2009

Sonohysterography is an alternative diagnostic tool for women with adenomyosis

A new study shows sonohysterography as an effective diagnostic tool for women with adenomyosis, improving detection rates and reducing errors in interpretation. The technique helps identify specific signs of the condition, such as 'myometrial cracks,' which were previously difficult to characterize on standard ultrasound.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateMar 4, 2009
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Broadband wireless research gets 'green' light

The Australia-China Research Centre aims to reduce the number of base stations required in wireless networks, thereby lowering their environmental impact. The centre will focus on advanced antenna technologies and signal processing algorithms for next-generation broadband wireless communications networks.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateMar 4, 2009

Health is a critical political objective towards peace and justice

The Lancet Series on Health in The Occupied Palestinian Territory highlights the importance of health for achieving peace and justice in the region. Key findings include improving maternal and child health, addressing trauma and non-communicable diseases, and advocating for sustainable peace settlement through international cooperation.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 4, 2009

NRL astronomers selected for NASA's Lunar Science Institute

NRL researchers join a team to develop a telescope on the Moon for studying an era of the young Universe, during the first 500 million years after the Big Bang. The project aims to detect signals from hydrogen atoms in the Dark Ages, providing insights into the formation and evolution of the modern Universe.

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·DateMar 4, 2009
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Palestinians lack basic human security

Threats to Palestinian life and well-being have intensified since 2000, including killings, injuries, and destruction of homes and properties. Access to basic services like fuel, electricity, water, and sanitation is disrupted by Israeli restrictions and military incursions.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 4, 2009

Mortality risk greater for elderly women who nap daily

A new study found that older women who reported taking daily naps had a 44% increased risk of dying from any cause. This association remained significant among relatively healthy women and was strongest for cardiovascular-related mortality.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 4, 2009

Taking the pulse of our planet

The USA-NPN is launching a new national program to track the effects of climate change on seasonal changes in plant and animal behavior. Scientists will use volunteer observations to monitor life cycles of nearly 200 species of plants, predicting wildfires, pollen production, droughts and assessing ecosystem vulnerability.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·DateMar 4, 2009
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

New database important resource in caring for dialysis patients

The Comprehensive Dialysis Study (CDS) includes data on more than 1,600 patients, providing a valuable new resource for improving dialysis outcomes. Researchers can examine the interrelated factors affecting the health of new dialysis patients and identify predictive significance of early physical and nutritional status.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 4, 2009

Elsevier announces launch of Osteopathic Family Physician

The new journal, Osteopathic Family Physician, will cover topics such as preventive medicine, managed care, and pain management. It aims to deliver resources that contribute to enhanced patient care and support successful practice management for osteopathic family physicians.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalOsteopathic Family Physician·DateMar 4, 2009

Novel veterinary procedure detecting life-threatening injuries touted

Researchers developed a new thoracic ultrasound examination called TFAST to diagnose pneumothorax and other thoracic injuries in dogs. The study found that TFAST proved highly accurate for detecting PTX and other related injuries, with accuracy comparable to human clinical research.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care·DateMar 4, 2009
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Safeway gives $685,000 to TGen for breast cancer research

The grocery chain has increased its contribution to TGen by 37% over 2008, with the donation representing a significant boost to breast cancer research. The funds will be used to develop treatments and eventually find a cure for breast cancer.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·DateMar 4, 2009

Quantum paradox directly observed -- a milestone in quantum mechanics

Researchers directly observed Hardy's Paradox, a fundamental quantum mechanics conundrum, by using joint weak measurement with entangled photons. The experiment resolves the paradox without inference, revealing a significant step towards harnessing reality of quantum mechanics.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateMar 4, 2009
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

MRI and PET/CT improve cervical cancer patient's chances for optimal treatment

A study found that pretreatment MRI and PET/CT can direct women with stage IB cervical cancer to optimal therapy choices, avoiding trimodality therapy. The imaging modalities resulted in the highest percentage of correct primary treatment (89%) and saved the most patients from trimodality therapy (95%).

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateMar 4, 2009

Politicians can use fear to manipulate the public

A new study explores how and when politicians can use fear to manipulate the public into supporting policies they might otherwise oppose. Politicians' use of fear is more likely with abstract topics that are difficult for citizens to observe.

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Political Science·DateMar 4, 2009
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

New 'smart' homes for dementia sufferers

Innovative 'smart' sensing systems could help 700,000 UK dementia sufferers live independently at home with improved safety and control. The systems, developed at the University of Bath, provide voice-prompts and can switch lights or appliances on and off to eliminate potential dangers.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateMar 4, 2009

Older adults control emotions more easily than young adults

A study published in Psychology and Aging found that older adults can regulate emotions more efficiently than young adults, allowing them to perform better on memory tasks. This ability helps older adults maintain quality of life by minimizing the negative impact of emotions.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology Research News·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateMar 4, 2009
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

'Information agents' for faster, better emergency response

The ALADDIN project has created software that can acquire and process real-time data from sensor networks, supporting situational awareness and operational decision-making in emergency response situations. The information agents will enable emergency responders to access and distribute up-to-the-minute data via various devices.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateMar 4, 2009

Assembling cells into artificial 3-D microtissues, including a tiny gland

Scientists have created synthetic microtissues that can perform functions like secreting hormones and responding to stimuli, surpassing individual cell capabilities. The technique uses DNA hybridization as a programmable glue to link cells together in 3D arrangements.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2009

Rituximab reduces kidney inflammation in patients with lupus

A study published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society Nephrology suggests that rituximab can significantly improve kidney health in patients with severe lupus nephritis. The immunosuppressive drug showed promise in reducing inflammation and improving renal outcomes in those who did not respond to conventional therapy.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 4, 2009

Antibody key to treating variant CJD, scientists find

Researchers at the University of Liverpool have determined the atomic structure of the binding between an antibody and a brain protein that could be key to treating vCJD. The study found that this antibody, ICSM18, has therapeutic potential in preventing brain cell infection and reversing early damage caused by the disease.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2009

Algae could fuel cars and jobs

The production of algae-based biodiesel has been shown to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by avoiding the use of fossil resources. Additionally, establishing an algal biodiesel plant could create up to 45 jobs in rural areas and provide opportunities for diversifying agricultural sectors.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateMar 4, 2009
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

UK science policy: Who decides?

The Human Fertilisation and Embryology (HFE) Act's development is examined in a conference, revealing insights into UK science policy decision-making processes. Key stakeholder groups' impact on the public debate and legislative outcome are discussed.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateMar 4, 2009

Is the Dead Sea dying?

The Dead Sea's water levels are decreasing at an accelerated rate, primarily caused by increased human water consumption from the Jordan and Yarmouk Rivers. The study suggests that desalination of seawater or construction of new channels could help slow down the receding water levels.

SourceSpringer·JournalZeitschrift für Didaktik der Naturwissenschaften·DateMar 4, 2009

200,000 rice mutants available worldwide for scientific investigation

Over 200,000 genetically modified rice mutant lines are now available for researchers to study the function of approximately 57,000 genes in Oryza sativa. The vast repository is expected to accelerate the understanding of gene function and biological processes in rice and other commercially important grasses.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateMar 4, 2009
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.